Almost two years ago, the leadership at LifePoint Church had the privilege of connecting with Jay and Heidi St. John. Through a series of meetings, Jay and Heidi presented their vision for impacting our community; specifically through their Christian Home-school co-op.

Their passion to reach families and children with the word of God and to strengthen families, fit “hand in glove” with the mission, vision and purpose of LifePoint. We are now completing our second year as the East Clark County campus for First Class. Their leadership and students are a blessing to our people and our facility.  I would strongly encourage Lead Pastors to consider embracing First Class.  Their abilities to reach into a segment of the culture in your city will impact your church and ultimately shape and change lives for the Kingdom of God.

Why Start a First Class Homeschool Co-op?

• Promote Christian education

   

• Provide opportunities for evangelism and community outreach

   

• Support homeschooling families

   

• Grow as a result of having a homeschool co-op

   

• Hear the gospel message each week at chapel

   

• Find the support and encouragement they need as they home educate their children

   

• See the local church as a beacon of hope and encouragement in their communities

Co-ops are lead by homeschooling parents who form a board and operate under the authority of the local church.  While the leadership must be Christian, membership is open to all.  Parents who teach in the co-op must sign a statement of faith as well. The impact on the church staff should be minimal.

Each year co-ops pay a $200 charter fee to FCHM for use of the program.  This includes but is not limited to:  logos, website, database, leadership training, member ezine and support materials.  FCHM homeschool co-ops are designed to be self-supporting.  Parents pay membership dues to FCHM each year to become part of a local chapter (or co-op).  FCHM dues are $25/family per year.  Local co-ops may also charge a registration fee, not to exceed $25/year.  Class tuition is determined by the co-op leaders.  It cannot exceed more than $5/class for the entire semester, plus a supply fee if necessary.  Tuition collected goes toward the running of the co-op.  Scholarships are given out as needed.  No family is ever turned away for financial reasons.

Opportuntiy to Meet a Need in the Homeschooling Community

At First Class, we believe that homeschoolers are at their best when they're connected with other homeschooling families. Many churches today want to reach out to homeschooling families, but are unsure of an effective way to do so.

FCHM will help you, in partnership with your local church or homegroup to:

• Start a homeschool cooperative using a model that works (over 2000 families have enrolled in First Class co-ops)
• Have access to a database that was made for the sole purpose of making your homeschool cooperative easier to manage
• Connect with other First Class co-ops, exchanging ideas, encouragement and inspiration
• Reach out to your local community of homeschoolers with a Christ-centered program
• Be part of an organization that is committed to coming alongside local churches and parents in ministry